Update of estimates of occupational exposure to carcinogens in Costa Rica: a comparison between TICAREX 2001–2002 and the 2015–2022 period

Abstract

Abstract Background Occupational cancer is the leading cause of work-related death. In Costa Rica, the most recent systematic estimate of workers exposed to carcinogens was conducted in 2001–2002 (TICAREX). Objective Update the estimates of the number of workers exposed to carcinogens during the 2015–2022 period and compare them with TICAREX 2001–2002. Methods Microdata from the Continuous Employment Survey (INEC) were analyzed; 472 economic activities were regrouped into 55 categories following the original TICAREX structure and ISIC. A CAREX-type exposure matrix was applied, with exposure proportions adapted through literature review, productive-process analysis, regulatory assessment, and validation by occupational health experts. Findings The agents with the highest estimated exposure were solar radiation (13.9%), diesel emissions (10.7%), chromium VI (4.3%), crystalline silica (4.0%), benzene (3.1%), and wood dust (1.9%). Compared with 2001–2002, marked decreases were observed for environmental tobacco smoke, tetrachloroethylene, formaldehyde, diesel emissions, and solar radiation; conversely, increases occurred for crystalline silica, lead, chromium VI, wood dust, benzene, and dichloromethane. Conclusions Overall, Costa Rica’s occupational exposure profile has shifted substantially: reductions likely reflect public policies, chemical substitution, and technological improvements, while increases mirror workforce changes and the growth of construction, metalworking, and mining. These findings inform prevention policies, strengthen occupational surveillance, and help prioritize interventions in higher-risk sectors.